That's the whisper around the NHL after Elias recently hired agent Allan Walsh of Octagon Hockey, who also represents the Senators winger.

While Walsh confirmed last night he will represent the New Jersey Devils winger when he becomes an unrestricted free agent July 1, he wouldn't address the rumours.

"I'm not going to speculate or comment on anything like this," said Walsh, who confirmed Elias and Havalt are close friends.

It's believed the Czech duo would like the chance to play together at some point during their careers. The speculation in New Jersey is the Devils are willing to offer Brian Gionta or Scott Gomez to the Senators in exchange for Havlat, who will be seeking a raise after making $2.6 million (all terms US) last season.

It's possible the Senators could sign Elias as a UFA and then try to keep Havlat. But it seems unrealistic to think Ottawa could have Dany Heatley, Jason Spezza, Daniel Alfredsson, Havlat and Elias all under contract without someone being happy about his salary.

McGRATTAN CASHES IN: Tough guy Brian McGrattan, who made $450,000, last season signed a two-year, $1.05-million deal yesterday. He will make $500,000 next season and $550,000 in 2007-08. "I feel awesome," said McGrattan, 25, who was second on the Senators with 141 penalty minutes last season and led the league in fighting majors. "This is amazing, to get the opportunity to play in Ottawa again. Last year was a great experience." Also signed was D Andy Hedlund, who played last year in Germany but had spent the previous three seasons playing for the Senators' AHL affiliate in Binghamton.